Two years had passed.

At the age of nine, my transformation was notable. Two years ago, I had possessed a skinny frame, standing at about 1.10 meters tall, which was quite short for my age. This stature likely resulted from two years of insufficient nutrition. However, now, even though I remained somewhat slender, my body had developed considerably. I had a strong physique, albeit not overly muscular, as excessive muscle growth at such a young age could lead to complications. My height had increased to around 1.40 meters, which was a welcome improvement.

But my transformations weren't solely physical; I had also honed my skills as a swordsman. I had developed a solid and effective style, incorporating my Hercules Blessing to gain a significant advantage. Yet, perhaps the most significant achievement was my rank. I had reached the silver rank by mastering the first five Aura Techniques, though I remained officially unranked as I hadn't yet taken the necessary test. Swen had emphasized that achieving the silver rank at the age of nine in just two years was a remarkable feat, and I should take pride in my progress. While there were others who had achieved even greater feats, my accomplishments should suffice for acceptance into the academy.

Over the past two years, I diligently trained in swordsmanship, mana control, and close combat. Swen taught me during the weekends, while the remaining days were dedicated to solo practice. I also ventured out to hunt monsters, both to gain experience and accumulate funds. My daily routine consisted of sharing meals with Swen, Sonia, and Talon, and I continued to sleep in the same room I had rented two years prior. This living arrangement had gradually shaped into a semblance of a family, making it increasingly difficult for me to leave for the academy. However, I knew it was necessary to become stronger and better equipped to survive in this world.

Finally, the day of departure had arrived. I rose from my bed, refreshed my face, donned my attire, and descended the stairs to the inn's lobby. There, I found Sonia, Swen, and Talon waiting for me. Swen initiated the conversation.

"So, the time has come. Two years ago, you looked so fragile that when you mentioned your desire to attend the academy, I couldn't help but laugh. But now, you're practically stronger than me. Please ensure a safe journey to the capital, eat well, and don't forget to continue your training."

I nodded and replied, "Yes, I shall do so."

Sonia's eyes shimmered with emotion as she said, "I'm going to miss you, Allen. Make sure to visit us someday. Best of luck in the academy."

I expressed my gratitude, saying, "Yes, thank you, Sonia, I will miss you to."

Talon gestured and smiled, a silent form of well-wishing that I had come to understand.

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"Thank you, Talon," I acknowledged.

Swen handed me a piece of paper and explained, "Here, take this."

Curious, I inquired, "What is this?"

"It's a map," Swen replied. "How do you intend to reach the academy if you don't have one?"

I chuckled and said, "I hadn't thought about that. Thank you."

I examined the map.

https://i.imgur.com/oDP1cI9.jpg [https://i.imgur.com/oDP1cI9.jpg]

The distance to the capital appeared to be approximately 2000 kilometers, rendering the map somewhat unnecessary since the journey was far too extensive to undertake on foot. There were only two practical options: traveling by carriage or by train.

"I shall depart now," I announced.

Swen offered a gentle push on my back and wished me well. "Have a safe trip."

"Thank you," I replied as I left the inn. My path to the capital involved catching either the train or a carriage, with the former option seeming more practical. The train represented the world's most advanced mode of transportation, its construction initiated five years ago by Frost Industries. It was designed to connect all the eastern nations on the continent, and two years ago, the project was successfully completed. Now, the plan was to establish a railway link between Mond and Polaris while also constructing a western line to connect the Sol Empire's capital with the Chalet Marquisate and Saphira's capital. However, this convenience came at a price. To maintain these trains, a significant quantity of magic stones was required, and the costs of construction were yet to be fully covered. As a result, a ticket from Roberta to the Vermillion Empire's capital cost around 1500 Loris. Fortunately, thanks to my two years of money saving and monster hunting, I had accumulated about 15000 Loris, which comfortably covered my travel expenses.

The train station lay in the northern part of the city, and I had acquired suitable clothing to blend in and avoid appearing impoverished. It also facilitated my passage into the north zone without drawing undue attention. As I ventured through the streets, the contrast became starkly apparent. Clean streets lined with extravagant shop windows, people adorned in clothing worth more than the monthly earnings of a middle-class family, and vigilant soldiers patrolling the area; it was a world apart from the coastal zone where I had spent the past two years.

Eventually, I reached the train station—a splendid structure. Inside, there was a lobby with a balcony for ticket purchases, two guards on standby, and an expansive waiting room. Stairs led to a second floor, likely housing rooms for VIP clients and the station manager's office. I approached the balcony and was attended to by a plain look young man.

"Hello, sir. How can I assist you?" he inquired.

"Hello. I would like to purchase one ticket to the capital," I replied.

"The next train to the capital departs in 20 minutes. Would you like a ticket for that train or the one departing in 10 hours?"

"The one in 20 minutes, please."

"Very well. The cost for a normal carriage on that train is 1560 Loris, or you could opt for the luxury carriage at 5000 Loris. The journey takes approximately 10 hours. Which one would you prefer?"

"The normal carriage will suffice."

"Then it's 1560 Loris, please."

I retrieved the money and handed it to the man. "Thank you, sir," he said, "Your carriage is number 13. Have a safe journey."

I expressed my gratitude and made my way to the designated carriage.